The Syrian Army has launched an operation against Hezbollah to reclaim control of border areas near Lebanon, resulting in heavy clashes and casualties. This escalation marks a shift in Syrian policy under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, challenging Iranian influence and attempting to restore national sovereignty. The situation could lead to reduced Iranian dominance in the region as Hezbollah faces increased military pressure.
The Syrian Army has initiated a comprehensive military operation aimed at expelling Hezbollah militants, who are supported by the Iranian regime, from critical border regions adjacent to Lebanon. This action signifies a marked escalation of tensions between Damascus and Iran’s proxies, with reports indicating that the conflicts have resulted in casualties for both factions and enhanced coordination between Syrian and Lebanese security forces against Hezbollah.
Heavy confrontations have reportedly taken place in the border town of Hosh Al-Sayyid Ali, which Hezbollah has controlled since 2013. The Syrian Army is engaging in an extensive artillery and missile offensive targeting Hezbollah positions. A representative from the Syrian defense ministry revealed that the primary objective is to completely reclaim the town and secure the border against activities such as smuggling and arms trafficking by Hezbollah.
Furthermore, an official from the Syrian Ministry of Defense confirmed that the Syrian military is collaborating with Lebanese forces to bolster border security. The Lebanese Army has also reacted to Hezbollah’s aggressive maneuvers, which have created tensions with their allies. A Lebanese military source stated, “Our forces have been ordered to respond to any attacks from Syrian territory.”
In a display of resistance, Hezbollah militants attempted to overcome the Syrian forces by launching rocket assaults against their positions near Homs. This prompted the Syrian military to intensify its offensive, leading to a withdrawal of Hezbollah from several locations. Reports indicate that both sides have incurred significant losses, comprising at least 12 Hezbollah fighters and 8 Syrian soldiers killed amidst the ongoing conflict.
This recent escalation between the Syrian government and Hezbollah illustrates a critical shift in Syria’s approach towards Iranian influence. The Syrian government, now under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is actively seeking to challenge Hezbollah’s dominance, which has historically allowed Iran to extend its military reach throughout Syria. Syrian officials have announced intentions to “restore full control” over national borders and curb Hezbollah’s unauthorized operations, thus aiming to reclaim sovereignty and diminish external intervention.
The ramifications of this development are profound, directly challenging Iran’s ambitions in the region. The possible forfeiture of Hezbollah’s strategic footholds in Syria could seriously undermine Iran’s so-called ‘Axis of Resistance’ against Western and Arab foes. Moreover, military shortcomings for Hezbollah may provoke support for opposition groups in Lebanon, consequently weakening Iran’s influence within the country.
The evolving dynamics reveal growing fractures within the Iran-led coalition, as Damascus appears more inclined to prioritize its national interests over Iran’s agenda for expansion. Facing increased military pressure from Syrian and Lebanese forces, Hezbollah is becoming increasingly isolated, suggesting a potential decline in Iran’s once-uncontested dominance in Syria.
In conclusion, the Syrian Army’s recent military operation against Hezbollah marks a decisive turn in relations between Damascus and Tehran’s proxies. This initiative aims to reassert Syrian sovereignty and may signal a diminishing Iranian influence in the region. As tensions escalate, the fallout from these clashes could lead to substantial ramifications for both Hezbollah and Iran’s strategic interests, undermining their established presence along the Lebanese-Syrian border.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
